We’re officially three months out from one of the most anticipated amateur golf events in the Carolinas—the Golf Digest Open Regional Qualifier, set to take place at Tidewater Golf Club on Friday, June 20, 2025. Anticipation is rising, and with good reason: this event brings together competitive spirit, championship-level course conditions, and the chance to earn a spot in the prestigious Golf Digest Open National Championship later this year.
Whether you’re looking to test your skills against some of the best amateur players in the region or simply want to experience tournament play on one of South Carolina’s most scenic and strategic public-access layouts, June 20 is a date to circle on the calendar.
What is the Golf Digest Open?
The Golf Digest Open is a nationwide amateur tournament series giving two-person teams the opportunity to compete on top-tier golf courses across the U.S. Each event is part of the qualifier series, culminating in a National Championship hosted at a premier destination.
The Tidewater Regional Qualifier is one of only a select few events held in the Southeast, making it a can’t-miss opportunity for local and traveling golfers alike.
Why Tidewater?
Tidewater Golf Club is no stranger to accolades. Set among the coastal beauty of North Myrtle Beach, the course features a mix of high drama, marsh views, and memorable holes that challenge players both mentally and physically. From the elevation changes and breezy conditions to the slick, undulating greens, Tidewater provides a true tournament-level test.
Standout holes include:
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Hole 3 (Par 3) – A scenic marsh carry with the tide influencing wind and club choice
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Hole 4 (Par 4) – The most difficult hole on the course, requiring precision on every shot
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Hole 8 (Par 5) – A reachable par 5 that entices big hitters to go for the green in two
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Hole 12 (Par 3) – A picturesque hole that often plays differently than expected due to coastal winds
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Hole 13 (Par 5) – A bold, marsh-lined hole that’s reachable in two with a gutsy approach
Format, Yardage & Registration Details
We’ve received quite a few calls from players interested in the fine print, so here’s everything you need to know to prepare:
???? Registration – Two-Step Process
Registration for this event involves two important steps:
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Sign up and pay on the Golf Digest Open website
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Complete formal registration (player info, tee preference, etc.) once contacted by the tournament team
Spots are filling quickly, and due to the event’s popularity, early sign-up is strongly encouraged.
⛳ Format
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2-person best ball
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All teams will automatically be entered into both Gross and Net divisions
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Handicap verification will be required as part of the final registration step
???? Yardage
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No senior tees will be used for this event
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Men’s tees will play approximately 6,200 – 6,500 yards
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Women’s tees will play approximately 5,200 – 5,500 yards
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Each course in the series uses a consistent yardage range to ensure fair play across all locations
???? Who Can Play?
While Golf Digest markets this as an “Open” format, it is primarily intended for amateur players. There is a possibility that professionals could enter in the Gross division, but confirmation is still pending from the Golf Digest team. Stay tuned—we’ll update all registrants as soon as we receive clarification.
A Tournament Feel, Without the Pressure
The Golf Digest Open strikes a rare balance: it’s competitive, yes—but also inviting. You don’t need a scratch handicap to play. The best-ball format allows teams to strategize and support each other, and the atmosphere is friendly and energized from the first tee shot to the last putt.
Each participating team will enjoy:
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A premium tee gift and welcome package
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Tournament organization and on-course support
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Post-round awards reception and leaderboard display
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A chance to earn your way to the Golf Digest Open National Championship
The Local Impact
This event isn’t just about golf—it’s a chance for North Myrtle Beach and the greater Grand Strand area to showcase why this region is one of the top golf destinations in the country. Players from out of state will arrive early to explore, and many local fans will stop by to follow the action and soak in the atmosphere.
It’s also a big day for our community partners, from restaurants and hotels to local small businesses that benefit from an influx of passionate golfers looking to enjoy everything this area has to offer.
Getting Tournament-Ready
With three months left, now is the time to prepare if you’re serious about making a run for the National Championship. Here’s how:
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Practice your best ball strategy: Learn how to play off each other’s strengths
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Get comfortable putting under pressure: Tidewater’s greens are fast, and reading breaks is a must
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Familiarize yourself with the course layout: You’ll want to have a game plan for reachable holes like #8 and #13, and to stay out of trouble on holes like #4
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Stay tuned to updates: We’ll be sharing more info through our website and social media as the date gets closer
Final Thoughts
June 20 will be more than just another Friday at Tidewater—it’ll be a day where great stories are written, local talent shines, and players chase a dream. The Golf Digest Open Regional Qualifier brings excitement, competition, and prestige to our corner of the coast, and we’re proud to host it right here at Tidewater Golf Club.
If you haven’t registered yet, don’t wait. Spots are limited, and the clock is ticking. For more information or to register, visit the Golf Digest Open website.
We’ll see you June 20. Until then—practice smart, and swing confidently.